Caitlin Seeley, a Stratford art teacher, recreates with chalk a photo she found in a National Geographic magazine during the 2006 Chalkfest in downtown Wausau. / (Wausau Daily Herald file photo)

Written by

Shereen Skola

Wausau Daily Herald

The artist

Name: Caitlin SeeleyAge: 27Residence: WestonOccupation: Art teacher for the Stratford School District

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Editor's note: This is the second in a series of artist profiles counting down to this weekend's Chalkfest.

With a bachelor's degree in art, previous participation in gallery shows and six years' experience in chalk artistry, Caitlin Seeley really is a master of her craft.

Seeley is a two-time winner of Chalkfest, the annual sidewalk chalk event in Wausau that brings in more than 200 artists of wide-ranging ages and abilities.

The Stratford art teacher is busy planning for this year's event, slated for Saturday and Sunday on The 400 Block in downtown Wausau. This year, she'll reproduce the 1943 "Rosie the Riveter" propaganda poster by J. Howard Miller.

"I think the contrast of blues and yellows will look really great this year. We like to choose a piece for Chalkfest that is recognizable and one that will stand out. Images that evoke emotion seem to be a hit, as well," said Seeley, whose past efforts have included reproductions of a Norman Rockwell piece and a National Geographic Magazine photo.

Seeley started taking art classes as a student at the University of Wisconsin Marathon County, when professor Diana Budde encouraged her to participate in the festival.

"I think being a part of it solidified my desire to be an art major," said Seeley, who went on to earn a degree in arts and arts management at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

As an art teacher, Seeley said she recommends that her students participate, regardless of their level of experience.

"Since school has been out for a month, it's hard to remind them about the festival, but last year, a few students participated," Seeley said. "I hope to see more of my students again this year."

Seeley said she participates each year because she appreciates the opportunity to promote art. Her husband, Brad, usually works on pieces with her.

"Both of his brothers are professional artists, and his uncle is a retired art teacher, as well, so we're just one big artistic family," Seeley said.